Specifications include, but are not limited to: MDVA, in cooperation with numerous affiliated and unaffiliated stakeholders, will recognize Minnesota’s Vietnam Veterans and commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the ending of the Vietnam War. This event serves the purpose of showing Minnesota’s Vietnam Veterans that they are honored, respected and appreciated. To reach this goal, MDVA is requesting proposals from qualified responders with at least five years of related experience in planning and executing public relations campaigns and large public events to: 1. Plan and execute a multi-month, multi-media public relations campaign (Campaign) leading up to the Commemoration. The Campaign is expected to take place from February 2024 through June 2024; and 2. Plan and execute a Vietnam War 50th Anniversary Commemoration Event (Commemoration) to take place June 12-14, 2024. Commemoration Event Objectives • Provide an opportunity to thank and honor Minnesota Vietnam-era Veterans wherever they served. • Highlight the service of the Armed Forces during the Vietnam War. • Recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by allies of the United States during the Vietnam War, especially those who have made Minnesota their home. Tasks and Deliverables. The successful responder (Contractor) will be responsible for tasks and deliverables including, but not limited to, the following: 2.1 Within one week of finalizing the contract, conduct a kickoff meeting MDVA and stakeholders to discuss goals, timeline, expectations, budget, and resources. 2.2 Public Relations Campaign: 2.2.1 Prior to March 18, 2024: Develop and present a detailed plan to MDVA that incorporates the commemoration objectives in a public relations campaign and culminates in the Commemoration Event. 2.2.2 Develop a theme for the Campaign and Commemoration Event. 2.2.3 Strategize and present best options to engage the public in the event objectives and publicize the event – including owned, earned and paid media - utilizing a best value for the lowest cost philosophy that are within the allotted Campaign budget. 2.2.4 On or around March 18, 2024, kick off the public relations campaign in collaboration with MDVA leaders and the Vietnam War 50th Anniversary Commemoration Working Group. 2.2.5 Incorporate an opportunity for Vietnam Veterans to share their stories and experiences in an interactive public online platform throughout the Campaign. 2.3 Commemoration Event: 2.3.1 By May 1, 2024: Develop a detailed Event Run of Show Plan that includes: 2.3.1.1 Identifying, recommending, receiving MDVA’s approval to proceed, and then subcontracting with required and recommended vendors and local, state, and national resources providing contact information and cost estimates that are within the allotted Commemoration Event budget. 2.3.1.2 Identifying, contacting, inviting, and coordinating the presence of Vietnam Veteran support organizations to participate in a Resource Fair/Information table that will be available in the two days before the event (June 12 and 13, 2024) and on the day of the event (June 14, 2024). 2.3.1.3 Promoting and coordinating the presence of a display of the Vietnam War traveling “Wall that Heals” replica on site. 2.3.1.4 Promoting and coordinating the presence of displays from the Minnesota Military and Veterans Museum and possibly a Helicopter display on site...
